Jamie Oliver Homemade Baked Beans Recipe [GUIDE]

Jamie Oliver’s Homemade Baked Beans are a comforting, flavorful twist on the classic canned variety but they come with a depth of flavor you just can’t get from a tin. Made from scratch using fresh ingredients, these beans are slow-cooked in a tangy, slightly sweet sauce. Instead of relying on preservatives and artificial flavorings, Jamie’s recipe uses real ingredients like tomatoes, onions, garlic and a mix of herbs and spices to build layers of flavor.

It’s a hearty dish that’s both satisfying and nutritious, especially when paired with toast, sausages or a simple salad. The best part? They’re surprisingly easy to make and the end result is a delicious, homemade version that elevates a typically simple side dish into something truly special.

Jamie Oliver Homemade Baked Beans Recipe

Ingredients Needed

For Jamie Oliver’s Homemade Baked Beans, the ingredients are relatively straightforward but each one contributes to the rich, balanced flavor of the dish:

• 2 tbsp olive oil. For sautéing and providing a rich base flavor.
• 1 onion – Adds sweetness and depth when softened.
• 2 cloves garlic – A must for that aromatic background flavor.
• 2 cans of butter beans (or cannellini beans). The star of the dish, providing a creamy texture.
• 1 tbsp tomato puree. This thickens the sauce and enhances the tomato flavor.
• 400g can of chopped tomatoes. The base for the sauce, bringing both sweetness and acidity.
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce. A bit of umami to balance the sweetness.
• 1 tbsp maple syrup or brown sugar. For a hint of sweetness that contrasts the acidity.
• 1 tsp smoked paprika. For a subtle smokiness that makes the dish stand out.
• 1 tsp mustard powder. Adds a bit of tanginess to offset the sweetness.
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar. Deepens the overall flavor profile.
• Salt and pepper – To taste.
• A small bunch of fresh thyme or dried thyme. For an earthy herbal note.
• Fresh parsley – Optional, for garnish and a fresh finish.

These ingredients come together to create the perfect balance between tangy, sweet, smoky and savory.

Equipment Needed

You don’t need anything too fancy to make Jamie’s homemade baked beans but having the right tools makes the process smoother. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Large frying pan or skillet. This will be your main cooking vessel for sautéing the onions, garlic and creating the sauce.
• Wooden spoon or spatula. For stirring the ingredients and preventing anything from sticking to the pan.
• Saucepan or pot – To heat up the beans and combine them with the sauce.
• Can opener – Since you’ll be using canned beans and chopped tomatoes, this is an essential tool.
• Chopping board and knife. For prepping the garlic, onion and herbs.
• Measuring spoons – For accuracy in getting the right amounts of spices and condiments.
• Lid (optional) – If you prefer to simmer the beans with a lid to help concentrate the flavors and reduce liquid.

How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Homemade Baked Beans

Making these beans from scratch is surprisingly simple and you can really get into the rhythm of it once you’ve done it once or twice. Here’s a breakdown:

1. Prep the ingredients: Start by finely chopping the onion and garlic. If you’re using fresh thyme, strip the leaves from the stem. Open your cans of butter beans and chopped tomatoes.
2. Cook the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in your frying pan over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and cook it for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s soft and golden. Add the garlic and cook for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Build the sauce: Stir in the tomato puree, Worcestershire sauce, maple syrup (or brown sugar), smoked paprika, mustard powder and balsamic vinegar. Cook for a few minutes, stirring often to combine everything well.
4. Add the tomatoes: Pour in the canned chopped tomatoes. Stir to combine everything into a thick, rich sauce. Bring it to a simmer.
5. Simmer the beans: Add the drained butter beans to the pan and stir them into the sauce. Let the beans cook gently for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce should thicken and coat the beans, getting richer and more flavorful the longer it simmers. Season with salt, pepper and thyme to taste.
6. Finish and serve: Once the beans are soft and the sauce has reduced to a nice consistency, remove from heat. If you want to add a little more flavor, sprinkle some fresh parsley over the top for color and freshness.

What I Learnt

Making Jamie Oliver’s homemade baked beans taught me a few valuable lessons about cooking from scratch.

• The Power of Simple Ingredients: Sometimes, the simplest ingredients can create the most impactful flavors. The combination of onions, garlic, tomatoes and beans really shows that you don’t need to complicate things to make something delicious.
• Building Flavor Takes Time: The long, slow simmering process is key to developing the deep, rich flavors in this dish. At first, it seemed like a lot of ingredients for something so simple but the final result proves that taking your time is worth it.
• How to Balance Sweet and Savory: The maple syrup and balsamic vinegar worked together in a way I hadn’t expected, balancing out the natural acidity of the tomatoes. It’s a reminder that both sweetness and tanginess can coexist beautifully in savory dishes.

Recipe Tweaks For Jamie Oliver’s Homemade Baked Beans

Jamie Oliver’s take on homemade baked beans is delicious but sometimes we like to mix it up based on taste, dietary preferences or even what’s in the pantry. Here are some fun tweaks you can try:

1. Add a Smoky Flavor

   Jamie’s beans have a sweet tomato base but you can add a smoky twist with a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a dash of liquid smoke. If you want a real depth, toss in some crispy pancetta or bacon bits for extra flavor.

2. Spice It Up

   If you like heat, add a finely chopped fresh chili (jalapeño or serrano works great) or a pinch of chili flakes. For a more complex spice profile, try adding some cumin, coriander or cinnamon. A hint of cayenne can give that spicy kick without overwhelming the flavors.

3. Sweeten the Deal

   The balance of sweet and savory is key. Jamie’s version uses a bit of honey or maple syrup for sweetness but you can experiment with alternatives like agave syrup or even brown sugar. If you’re into rich, dark flavors, molasses could give it a real comforting depth.

4. Herb Infusion

   Fresh herbs can elevate your beans. Try adding some thyme or rosemary while the beans simmer, then remove the sprigs before serving. If you’re looking for freshness, top the beans with fresh basil or parsley right before serving.

5. Swap the Beans

   The traditional recipe calls for cannellini beans but you can use butter beans, kidney beans or even black beans. Each variety will bring its own nuance of flavor and texture. If you prefer a more hearty, less mushy texture, kidney beans are a solid pick.

6. Vegan or Dairy-Free Twist

   If you want to make a vegan version of Jamie’s baked beans, simply swap the butter with olive oil or coconut oil. The recipe is already plant-based with the tomato base but using a dairy-free cheese or cream can add some richness. Try cashew cream for a smooth, creamy texture.

Storage Tips For Leftovers

If you’ve made a big batch of Jamie Oliver’s homemade baked beans and have some leftovers, don’t worry. they hold up great!

1. Cool Before Storing

   Let the beans cool down to room temperature before storing them in an airtight container. This helps prevent condensation which can make them soggy.

2. Refrigerating

   Store your leftovers in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. The flavors will actually deepen as they sit, making them even better the next day. Reheat them gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little splash of water or broth to loosen them up if needed.

3. Freezing for Later

   If you’ve made a big batch and want to freeze some for a future meal, they freeze beautifully! Simply portion them out into freezer-safe containers. They’ll keep for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat them, defrost overnight in the fridge and reheat thoroughly. If the texture gets a bit thick after freezing, just add a little water or broth to bring them back to life.

4. Don’t Forget to Label

   If you’re freezing, it’s always a good idea to label the containers with the date you made them. This ensures you keep track of how long they’ve been stored, so you can enjoy them at their best.

What To Eat With Jamie Oliver’s Homemade Baked Beans?

Jamie’s baked beans are versatile and can be paired with a variety of dishes. These beans can be the star of your meal. Here are some ideas:

1. Classic Toast

   You can’t go wrong with baked beans on toast. Opt for a hearty whole-grain or sourdough bread for extra flavor. If you want to take it up a notch, sprinkle some grated cheese on top and broil it for a melty finish.

2. Grilled Sausages

   Baked beans and sausages are a match made in heaven. Grilled pork or chicken sausages complement the beans perfectly, adding a savory, meaty balance.

3. Fried Eggs

   For a quick and satisfying meal, pair the beans with a fried egg or two. The rich yolk mixes so well with the beans. You can also scramble the eggs in with the beans for a one-pan wonder.

4. Roasted Vegetables

   For a lighter, vegetarian option, serve your beans alongside roasted vegetables like sweet potatoes, carrots or bell peppers. The sweetness of the vegetables contrasts beautifully with the beans’ savory, tangy notes.

5. Avocado & Greens

   For a more modern take, serve the beans with avocado slices and a side of leafy greens. A quick squeeze of lemon over the top adds brightness and cuts through the richness of the beans.

6. Cheese and Crackers

   For a fun snack or appetizer, serve the baked beans with some cheese and crackers. A tangy cheddar or a creamy goat cheese pairs nicely with the beans. You can even use the beans as a dip, like a chunky hummus alternative.

FAQs

How Long Do Jamie Oliver’s Homemade Baked Beans Take To Cook?

They typically take around 1.5 to 2 hours to cook, including prep time.

Can I Use Canned Beans Instead Of Dried Beans In Jamie Oliver’s Recipe?

Yes, you can use canned beans. Just reduce the cooking time since they’re already soft.

What Can I Serve With Jamie Oliver’s Homemade Baked Beans?

They’re great with toast, grilled sausages, or even a fried egg on top for a hearty breakfast!